Olympic Fencing to be made more exciting by use of props

In a bid to make Olympic fencing more accessible to spectators, officials have announced a trial in which theatre-style props are to be introduced into the arena. Initially these props will include...

Period costume.

A flight of stairs leading to a landing from which the only means of escape is a chandelier or rope hanging from the ceiling.

If the chandelier is used, then this must be supported by a rope and pulley system with the rope attached to the landing wall at just the right height for cutting with a single slashing movement of the sword.

Wooden furniture that should be whittled away to almost nothing during the course of the competition. Extra points may be awarded if the furniture ends up being whittled into interesting or humorous shapes.

If this trial is successful then other miscellaneous props such as kegs of ale, stags' heads, and emotional damsels in distress may be added for later rounds.

Fencing purists have expressed dismay that these changes are not in the true spirit of the sport. Movie fans, however, are said to have given the idea a cautious welcome but feel that extra points could be given to any competitor who manages to cut their initial or initials into an opponent's clothing.